Urban Trees Proven to Reduce Temperature and Improve Outdoor Comfort
A recent study conducted by Firnawati, Rizqiyah, Ismajaya, and Muhibuddin from IPB University in 2026 reveals the significant role of vegetation—especially trees—in lowering air temperature and increasing humidity in outdoor environments. The research, carried out at the Academic Event Plaza (AEP) of IPB University in Bogor, highlights how green spaces can improve thermal comfort in increasingly hot urban areas. As cities continue to experience rising temperatures due to the urban heat island effect, trees are no longer just aesthetic elements. They function as natural climate regulators that can modify microclimatic conditions, making outdoor spaces more comfortable for human activities.
Background: Rising Urban Heat Demands Natural Solutions
Urban areas in tropical regions face serious challenges due to increasing temperatures caused by dense infrastructure and limited green space. Previous studies have shown that areas with dense vegetation can be significantly cooler than those without plant cover. However, vegetation does more than reduce temperature. Through evapotranspiration, plants also increase air humidity, which can influence human comfort levels. Understanding the balance between temperature and humidity is therefore crucial for sustainable urban planning.
Research Method: Comparing Shaded and Open Areas
The research team conducted direct field observations using two main approaches. First, they compared microclimatic conditions under a single tree canopy with those in a nearby open area. Temperature and humidity measurements were recorded every 30 minutes over a three-hour period. Second, the study expanded to a spatial analysis across a 40 × 60 meter site divided into 24 grid cells. A total of 35 measurement points were used to map temperature and humidity distribution and assess the broader impact of vegetation cover.
Key Findings: Trees Cool the Air and Raise Humidity
The results show clear differences between shaded areas and open spaces. Key findings include:
-Air temperature under tree canopies was consistently lower than in open areas, with differences reaching around 0.7°C under certain conditions
-The lowest recorded temperature was 29.5°C under the canopy, compared to 30.2°C in open space
-Humidity levels were consistently higher in shaded areas
-Maximum humidity reached 66% beneath tree cover
On a larger spatial scale, areas with higher canopy coverage exhibited lower temperatures and higher humidity compared to areas with minimal vegetation. Statistical analysis further confirmed this relationship. Every unit increase in canopy coverage area was associated with a temperature decrease of 0.015°C, indicating a measurable cooling effect of vegetation.
Spatial Patterns: Greener Areas Are Cooler
Temperature (isotherm) and humidity (isohygro) mapping revealed distinct spatial patterns:
-Areas with dense tree cover recorded temperatures between 28.1°C and 29.1°C
-Less vegetated areas reached temperatures up to 30.6°C
-Humidity levels in shaded areas ranged from 65% to 69%
-Open areas showed lower humidity, around 57% to 63%
These patterns demonstrate that vegetation not only affects local conditions but also shapes the overall microclimate of an area.
Implications: A Strategy for Sustainable Cities
The findings offer important insights for urban planners and policymakers. Trees—particularly those with wide and dense canopies—should be a central element in the design of public spaces. Firnawati and her team from IPB University emphasize that selecting the right tree species, canopy shape, and leaf density is crucial to maximizing thermal comfort benefits. In practical terms, this research can support:
-More effective urban park design
-Reduction of heat stress in cities
-Improved comfort in public outdoor spaces
-Climate adaptation strategies for urban environments
The study also highlights opportunities to integrate technologies such as GIS, remote sensing, and microclimate modeling to enhance future urban planning.
Author Profile
Firnawati is a researcher in landscape architecture and environmental studies at IPB University. She collaborated with Rizqiyah, Ismajaya, and Muhibuddin, who share expertise in microclimate analysis, green space planning, and thermal comfort in tropical environments.
Source
This article is based on the study titled “The Influence of Vegetation Cover on Temperature and Humidity Distribution Affecting Thermal Comfort”, published in the International Journal of Applied and Advanced Multidisciplinary Research (IJAAMR), Vol. 4, No. 4, 2026, pages 235–248.
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